The former Leeds United and England forward scored for the second successive match, leading the Bluebirds to 1-0 wins against Leicester City and Palace.

Ricketts arrived at Ninian Park on loan from Leeds United three games ago and he completed 90 minutes for the first time.

'I can't keep taking Michael off and the 90 minutes will do him the world of good,' said Jones.

'It was a gamble because he hasn't had much football, but it will help get his energy levels up in the wrong time.

'To say I'm delighted with him in is an understatement. He has played three matches and scored two goals.

'We couldn't ask for more than that.

'We have signed Michael on loan until January with a view to a long deal. We want it to become long-term, but the problem is the more he scores for us the more Leeds may want to keep him. It's a catch 22 situation.'

Ricketts has continued his refusal to deal with the media, a feud which started during his days at Leeds United.

But his mood away from the pitch won't worry Jones, who says: 'I don't care what his mood might be like as long as he keeps playing the way he is and scoring goals.'

Ricketts and Cameron Jerome are now forging a strong partnership for City.

'There are goals there, a growing partnership,' said Jones. 'There are also goals in other departments as well.

'Winning is a great habit to get into. You can't inject the confidence it brings. You have to earn it - and we earned it against Palace.'